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WOMEN WHO INSPIRE INDIA:2

Just to refresh everyone’s memories, this post is inspired by Sudha Menon’s book “Leading Ladies”. The first one in this series featured –Meher Pudumjee.

The leading lady I write about this time is –P.T.Usha– the queen of India’s Track and Field for two decades. Usha has been nicknamed ‘Payyoli Express’, ‘Udanpari’ and ‘Golden Girl’ because of her speed.

Her life inspires, because despite her humble beginnings she attained the heights of glory and inspired generations of young girls to take up running. In her words: “I had never possessed a pair of track pants or shoes and had no idea what a crouch start was. I learnt to run on the beaches of Payyoli, barefoot.”

Her medal count at various national and international track and field events is long and impressive. In 1984,L.A. Olympic Games she almost made history but missed the bronze medal in the 400mt hurdles by one hundredth of a second. What is more impressive about her is her fierce dedication to running and determination that proved her detractors wrong again and again despite all odds heaped against her.

“the only constant in my life has been my complete commitment to running. From the earliest years of my life, I knew I was only meant to RUN.”

Some golden words from the Golden Girl of India.

“Talent alone is not enough. It has to be backed by the hunger to win and survive against any odds”

“Learn to lose if you want to win”

“God has given each of us some unique talent, but success comes to only those who exploit the full measure of their talents. Our future generation have to learn this little secret if they want to keep ahead in the race of Life”